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Hemp-Insulated Sanctuary Featuring Natural Wood and Transparent Facades for Mindful Wellness

Author:
Pavel Martinek
Hemp-Insulated Sanctuary Featuring Natural Wood and Transparent Facades for Mindful Wellness

Project in-detail

Crafted with hemp insulation and expansive glass facades, this serene retreat seamlessly integrates natural materials and sustainable practices, offering a tranquil space for yoga and meditation amidst a picturesque landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure utilizes hemp insulation for enhanced sustainability and energy efficiency.
02
Expansive glass facades create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces while maximizing natural light.
03
A unique combination of wooden grid and OSB panels provides both structural integrity and warmth.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems contribute to responsible water management within the facility.
05
The carefully curated landscape incorporates local flora to enrich biodiversity and promote tranquility.
The Adho Mukha Yoga House stands as a notable example of contemporary architecture designed to promote wellness and mindfulness. Set against a natural backdrop, this project emphasizes the importance of harmonizing built environments with their surroundings. The architecture represents a transition space where individuals can find solace, engage in mindful practices, and reconnect with nature.

Functionally, the yoga house serves as a retreat dedicated to meditation, yoga, and various wellness activities. The design prioritizes flexibility, accommodating both group sessions and individual practices. The primary yoga room, with an area of 88 square meters, is at the heart of the facility, designed to facilitate a sense of openness while allowing for a variety of uses. This multi-functional space is complemented by intermediate areas, including lounges and technical zones, which are thoughtfully integrated to enhance user experience and support community engagement.

The architectural design showcases a keen understanding of materiality and sustainability. Constructed with a primary framework of wooden grid and oriented strand board (OSB) panels, the structure conveys warmth and comfort. The choice of materials, including hemp insulation and natural plaster, reflects a commitment to eco-friendly practices while addressing energy efficiency and acoustic comfort. These materials serve not only functional purposes but also contribute to the inviting atmosphere of the space.

One of the most distinguishing aspects of the Adho Mukha Yoga House is its extensive glass facade. This feature allows natural light to flood the interior, establishing a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. By incorporating panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, the design reinforces the core philosophy of fostering a tranquil and immersive environment. The white cork flooring throughout the interior is another thoughtful detail, providing a soft and resilient surface that supports activities such as yoga and meditation, further enhancing the sensory experience for users.

Sustainability is a key theme in this project. The architecture integrates passive ventilation strategies, enabling natural airflow to maintain a comfortable climate without heavy reliance on mechanical systems. Additionally, the incorporation of rainwater harvesting systems supports responsible water usage, emphasizing the project's alignment with environmentally conscious architecture. The potential for solar panels highlights a commitment to renewable energy, further solidifying the project’s position as a forward-thinking architectural endeavor.

The landscaping surrounding the yoga house complements the architectural design, using local flora to enhance biodiversity and establish a peaceful setting for reflection and rejuvenation. Landscaping elements create quiet paths and tranquil outdoor spaces that encourage users to immerse themselves in nature, making indoor and outdoor experiences interconnected and fluid.

The Adho Mukha Yoga House not only exemplifies thoughtful architectural design but also showcases how architecture can serve wellness and community engagement. Its numerous unique design approaches—including adaptable spaces, an eco-conscious material palette, and a deep appreciation for the surrounding environment—reflect a comprehensive understanding of modern architectural principles.

For those interested in delving deeper, exploring the architectural plans and sections provides valuable insights into the project's design strategies and innovative ideas. This yoga house illustrates how contemporary architecture can successfully integrate with nature and promote a harmonious lifestyle, inviting further exploration of its elements and intentions.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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